Merrifield North
The Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) has completed a due diligence assessment for Merrifield North and is currently actioning the recommendations of this work while commencing preparation of a Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) for Merrifield North. The investigation area covers 988 hectares in the City of Hume and Shire of Mitchell.
The work is being undertaken in consultation with Hume City Council, Mitchell Shire Council, various government agencies, service authorities, and landowners.
The purpose of actioning the due diligence recommendations is to resolve complex matters impacting the future development of Merrifield North. These matters include:
- Determining the extent and significance of Inverlochy Wetland, located within the precinct.
- Determining an alignment or corridor for the extension of Aitken Boulevard through the precinct.
While resolving the above matters, the VPA will proceed with preparing a PSP for Merrifield North.
Over the coming months the VPA will work to resolve the above matters and commence preparation of a PSP for Merrifield North.
Merrifield North PSP video
The following video provides an update on the Merrifield North PSP project.
Interactive map of Merrifield North Precinct
Project Status Update – November 2025
We have progressed planning for the Merrifield North PSP by successfully completing the Visioning and Purpose phase for the project. In addition, we will continue progressing the Third Party Funding (TPF) process and required technical inputs, while actively engaging with precinct stakeholders, including landowners.
Since our last project status update in September 2025, we have:
- Completed the Final Pitching Summary Report (August 2025). This has been shared with all stakeholders and will be uploaded to the VPA Merrifield North project website soon.
- Completed Visioning and Purpose activities, including:
- A two hour in person workshop which provided stakeholders the opportunity to meet and discuss preferred precinct outcomes associated with four key themes identified through the pitching process. These were cultural heritage and environmental values, a high-quality employment precinct, transport and water and drainage.
- The Draft Visioning and Purpose Preliminary Report (October 2025) which was shared with precinct stakeholders and has since been updated in response to feedback received.
- The Final Visioning and Purpose Report (October 2025), which will be shared with stakeholders soon.
- Progressed preparation of Third Party Funding (TPF) agreements.
- Progressing with technical studies and completing the remaining consultant appointment.
- Facilitated two rounds of project governance group meetings (e.g. Project Steering Group, Advisory Group, and Landowner Group) for the Merrifield North PSP and one round of governance group meetings around work to resolve the Inverlochy Wetland extent and significance and the Aitken Boulevard alignment.
Over the coming weeks, our focus will be on finalising TPF agreements, progressing technical studies, and continuing engagement with project governance bodies.